The Scottish Government has confirmed £30 million in funding for community-led mental health and wellbeing projects over the next two years.
The Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults, first launched in 2021, supports local groups in building resilience and tackling social isolation, loneliness, and mental health inequalities. The Fund is expected to open for applications this autumn.
Over the first three years, approximately 4,800 grants have been awarded to grassroots projects that provide peer support and social connection through activities such as sport, outdoor pursuits, and the arts.
Alan McCloskey, CEO of VSGWL, said: “This welcome investment of around £1m for a further two years is fantastic news for small grassroots organisations that are helping vulnerable people in need across West Lothian. In the previous four years of the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, £2m has already been allocated to help over 150 local organisations to provide support to individuals impacted by social isolation and loneliness.”
Since its inception, the Fund has invested £66 million to support groups working with those at higher risk of poor mental health, including people experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, older people, and ethnic minority communities.
More information can be found at Improving communities’ mental wellbeing – gov.scot.
